Add-on device for endoscopy device and methods of use

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an add-on device configured to engage an endoscopy device. The add-on device comprises an add-on sleeve comprising a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the add-on sleeve is clamped to an outer surface of the endoscopy device; a proximal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the proximal end of the add-on sleeve; and a distal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the distal end of the add-on sleeve, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and / or the distal radially expandable traction balloon is slidable along the outer surface of the endoscopy device. A method of using an add-on device is provided. The method comprises putting (e.g., sliding) the add-on device onto the endoscopy device; fixing the add-on device onto a distal end of the endoscopy device; and moving the add-on device simultaneously with the endoscopy device within a body cavity.

Description

ADD-ON DEVICE FOR ENDOSCOPY DEVICE AND METHODS OF USECross-reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. provisional application No. 63 / 665,767 filed June 28, 2024, entitled “ADD-ON DEVICE FOR ENDOSCOPY DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an add-on device configured to engage an endoscopy device and move within a body cavity, such as the gastrointestinal tract, and methods of using the add-on device with an endoscopy device for endoscopic purposes, for moving the add-on device simultaneously with an endoscopy device within a body cavity, for capturing an image of the body cavity, and / or for performing an operation of a tissue or organ using the addon device (e.g., such as in combination with an endoscopy device). The presently disclosed addon device may be self-driving or under the control of the endoscopy device, and the articulation of a tip of the device may be controlled and fine-tuned. The presently disclosed add-on device may be used in a variety of body cavities.Summary

[0003] In some aspects, provided herein is an add-on device configured to engage an endoscopy device, the add-on device comprising: an add-on sleeve comprising a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the add-on sleeve is clamped to an outer surface of the endoscopy device; a proximal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the proximal end of the add-on sleeve; and a distal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the distal end of the add-on sleeve, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and / or the distal radially expandable traction balloon is slidable along the outer surface of the endoscopy device.

[0004] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device further comprises an umbilical and / or a console outside of a body cavity, wherein the umbilical connects the add-on sleeve and the console. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device further comprises a gas or liquid unit and / or a vacuum unit. In some embodiments, the gas or liquid unitis a air unit, such as a pressurized air unit. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the addon device further comprises a visualization unit and / or an illumination unit.

[0005] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device further comprises a pully system (e.g., a spring and cable system or a guide tube). In some of any of the provided embodiments, the pully system (e.g., spring and cable system or the guide tube) connects the distal end and the proximal end of the add-on sleeve. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the pully system (e.g., spring and cable system or the guide tube) connects the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and / or the distal radially expandable traction balloon.

[0006] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to attach to a distal end of the endoscopy device. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to attach to the endoscopy device by an atraumatic mechanism, wherein atraumatic mechanism comprises a rubber grommet, wherein the rubber grommet moves radially inward toward and locks onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to lock onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device by a lever action, a slider action, a ring, or a rotation action. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to lock onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device by a complementary feature (e.g., a ring positioned on an inside surface of the add-on device) onto an endoscopy feature (e.g., a groove on an outer surface of the endoscopy device).

[0007] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to operate mechanically and / or electronically. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device is configured to operate by hand and / or by foot.

[0008] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon comprises an inner surface configured to frictionally engage the outer surface of the endoscopy device. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprises an inner surface configured to frictionally engage the outer surface of the endoscopy device. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon or the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprise inner surfaces configured to frictionally engage the outer surface of the endoscopydevice. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon comprises an outer surface configured to frictionally engage a wall of a body cavity. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprises an outer surface configured to frictionally engage a wall of a body cavity. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon or the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprise outer surfaces configured to frictionally engage a wall of a body cavity. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon are independently controlled.

[0009] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the body cavity is a vascular body lumen, a digestive body lumen, a respiratory body lumen, or a urinary body lumen.

[0010] In some aspects, provided herein is a method of using an add-on device, such as any of the provided add-on devices, configured to engage an endoscopy device, the method comprising: Putting (e.g., sliding) the add-on device onto the endoscopy device; fixing the addon device onto a distal end of the endoscopy device; and moving the add-on device simultaneously with the endoscopy device within a body cavity.

[0011] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device moves the endoscopy device within the body cavity forward and / or backward. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device positions the endoscopy device at a fixed location within the body cavity. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon are configured to expand and collapse alternatively, thereby effecting movement of the add-on device simultaneously with the endoscopy device within the body cavity.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary pressurized air unit and / or a vacuum unit comprising a two lever system. FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary washer.

[0013] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary mechanism for fixation of the add-on device to an endoscopy device. FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary over center mechanism for fixation of the addon device to an endoscopy device. FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary secured locknut.

[0014] FIG. 6 depicts three alternative exemplary means for configuration of the provided add-on device with an endoscopy device (e.g., fixation of the add-on device). FIG. 7 depicts further alternative means for configuration of the provided add-on device with an endoscopy device via one or more traction balloons. A further alternative exemplary means for fixation of the add-on device to an endoscopy device using snap rings is depicted in FIG. 8.Detailed Description

[0015] In some aspects, provided herein is a mechanical device and system (e.g., an add-on device) that is capable of attaching to a standard endoscope near the distal end. In some aspects, the provided add-on device can be fitted by sliding the add-on device over a standard endoscope (e.g., scope) and is temporarily fixed to the endoscope while in use. In some aspects, this allows the provided add-on device to be similarly controlled as the endoscopy device. The provided add-on device can be used in combination with any standard endoscope known in the art, such as any standard gastrointestinal endoscope. In some aspects, the provided device allows for further capabilities (e.g. navigation and control) of an existing endoscopy device.

[0016] In some aspects, the add-on device comprises a add-on sleeve, which can be temporarily clamped to the outside diameter of an existing endoscope, such as any known endoscopy device. In some aspects, the add-on sleeve is tethered with an umbilical that spans the length of the endoscopy device (e.g., the scope) back to a console. In some aspects, the provided umbilical can be one piece or two separate pieces. In some aspects, the provided umbilical comprises two smaller diameter tethers. In some aspects, the provided device comprises two umbilicals such that one of the umbilical’s is able to move independently of the other.

[0017] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device comprises a proximal and a distal traction balloons. In some aspects, the distal traction balloon is fixed and the proximal traction balloon is movable.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the inflation and deflation of the balloons are controlled by the injection of gas or liquid for example, by injecting and / or drawing a gas (such as air) or a fluid via thin tubing along the inner and outer tubes, respectively. In some aspects, one or both of the proximal and distal traction balloons are inflated by gas or liquid (e.g., compressed air) through a tube present inside each tether, respectively. In particular embodiments, the one ormore channels delivering gas or liquid to the balloons attached to the first tube are fixed to the outer wall of the first tube. In some embodiments, the one or more channels delivering gas or liquid to the balloons attached to the first tube are fixed to the inner wall of the first tube. In some embodiments, the one or more channels delivering fluid to the balloons attached to the inner tube is fixed to the outer wall of the inner tube. In some embodiments, the one or more channels delivering fluid to the balloons attached to the inner tube is fixed to the inner wall of the inner tube. In some embodiments, gas or liquid to each balloon is delivered via one or more channels fixed along the outer and inner tubes.

[0019] The distal (e.g., fixed) balloon tether in some aspects comprises a gas or liquid (e.g., air) tube that is capable of being inflated and deflated. In some aspects, the proximal (e.g., movable) balloon tether comprises a motion cable as well as a gas or liquid (e.g., air) tube that is capable of being inflated and deflated. In some aspects, the inflation and deflation of the one or both of the proximal and distal traction balloons is via a vacuum through a tube present inside each tether, respectively.

[0020] In some aspects, directional control (e.g., steering) is via the endoscopy device that is engaged with the provided add-on device, such as any endoscopy device known in the art. In some embodiments, the provided add-on device confers a means for movement forward, backward, and rest (e.g., providing a stable platform when necessary for procedural use) of the endoscopy device. In some aspects, navigation is similarly accomplished using visualization and illumination provided by the endoscopy device, as well as insufflation, irrigation, and a working channel.

[0021] The present invention is not intended to be limited in scope to the particular disclosed embodiments, which are provided, for example, to illustrate various aspects of the invention. Various modifications to the compositions and methods described will become apparent from the description and teachings herein. Such variations may be practiced without departing from the true scope and spirit of the disclosure and are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. All publications, including patent documents, referred to in this application are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication were individually incorporated by reference. If a definition set forth herein is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a definition set forth in the patents,applications, published applications and other publications that are herein incorporated by reference, the definition set forth herein prevails over the definition that is incorporated herein by reference.

[0022] The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0023] References are made to the figures throughout, which describe certain elements or aspects of multiple embodiments of the present disclosure. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be limiting.System

[0024] Provided herein is an add-on device which in some aspects comprises a system comprising a spring and cable or comprising a guide tube. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the system creates motion of the add-on device and / or of the engaged endoscopy device. In some aspects, the system (e.g., a system comprising a spring and cable) provide a means to convert motion at the add-on device console described below, and returns a magnitude of stroke required for examination of the body cavity via the engaged endoscopy device.

[0025] In some aspects, the system is powered by electric power. In some aspects, the system is powered by mechanical power. In some aspects, the system is powered mechanically by the system user’s (e.g., endoscope user’s) hand or foot motion (e.g., such as a pedal). In some aspects, the system is powered electronically via software, such as software configured to provide power to the system. In some aspects, the system is disposable. In some aspects, the system is reusable.

[0026] In some aspects, the system (e.g., a system comprising a spring and cable) may be configured in the add-on device via one or more pulleys on the interior of the add-on device. In some aspects, the system (e.g., a system comprising a spring and cable) may be configured in the device through the use of guide tubes, such as guide tubes on the interior of the add-on device. In some aspects, the diameter of the system (e.g., a system comprising a spring and cable) can vary according to the configuration of the spring and cable comprising the system. In some aspects, a system wherein the spring and cable are configured in the device through the useof guide tubes has a smaller diameter than an identical system wherein the spring and cable are configured in the device via one or more pulleys on the interior of the provided device.

[0027] In some aspects, features of the system are lubricated to minimize friction, such as friction during movement. In some embodiments, the guide tubes are lubricated to minimize friction with the cables.Console

[0028] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the add-on device comprises a console which comprises a valve. In some aspects, the valve in the console meters the direction and amount of gas or fluid (e.g., compressed air) travel. In some aspects, the valve in the console further comprises a pressure relief valve that is able to limit inflation. In some aspects, the valve allows for the maintenance of pressure and volume within established parameters.

[0029] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the console comprises at least two hand operated levers, as shown in FIG. 1. In some aspects, the at least two hand operated levers are used sequentially to create movement and / or navigation of the endoscopy device engaged with the provided add-on device. In some aspects, pulling of the cable inside the provided add-on device works against the spring to slide the movable balloon (e.g., proximal balloon). In some aspects, alternative inflation and deflation of alternating balloons is provided by the console and confers movement.

[0030] In some aspects, the timing for backward motion is established by mechanical means inside the console. In some aspects, the timing for forward motion is established by mechanical means inside the console. The provision for “anchor” or stability mode or rest (e.g., providing a stable platform when necessary for procedural use) is in some aspects a separate feature similarly established by mechanical means within the console. In some aspects, movement is generated when back-to-back syringes, which are connected to a lever present of the console, apply compression and suction to the add-on device configured to engage with an endoscopy device in a body cavity.

[0031] In some aspects, gas or fluid pressure is supplied by moving the control lever (e.g., air pressure and vacuum lever) in the desired direction for advancement of the engaged endoscope. In some aspects, vacuum pressure is supplied by moving the control lever (e.g., gasor fluid pressure and vacuum lever) in the reverse direction with respect to the engaged endoscope. In some aspects, resistance is felt in the desired direction of the engaged endoscope and positioning can be controlled via feedback through the lever. In some aspects, the supply of gas or fluid is maintained in a reservoir and regulated by pressure control valves. In some aspects, a supply of gas or fluid (e.g., compressed air) is maintained by the use of a pump in the form of a foot pedal, or an external pressure source (such as is available along with suction in medical / surgical settings) connected to the console through a regulator.

[0032] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the use of pump such as a foot pedal, may provide an improved experience for the user of the provided add-on device in combination with an endoscopy device. It is considered that repetitive movement along with standing in a fixed position, such as when using an endoscopy device regularly over the course of a physician or user’s practice, may be associated with fatigue and / or certain muscular and / or skeletal conditions. In some aspects, the use of a pump such as foot pedal may be associated with improved circulation at the lower extremities of the user. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the foot pedal may be configured for use by either leg (e.g., left or right leg).Engagement of Endoscopy Device

[0033] In some aspects, the provided add-on device is configured to engage (e.g., is fixed to) an endoscopy device, such as any endoscopy device known in the art. In some aspects, the addon device may be temporarily fixed to the endoscopy device (e.g., scope) using an atraumatic method. In some aspects, temporary fixation of the provided add-on device to the existing endoscopy device does not damage the endoscopy device.

[0034] In some aspects, the add-on device is configured to engage an endoscopy device via temporary fixation using a rubber gromet. In some aspects, the gromet is a radially inwardexpandable, elastomeric ring or collar designed to securely couple or interface the provided addon device to an endoscope (or similar shaft-based instrument). In some aspects, the gromet is formed of rubber or a flexible polymer. In some aspects, the grommet is constrained between two surfaces — one fixed and one axially movable — allowing controlled radial compression. In some aspects, this rubber grommet decreases in diameter when actuated as compressed between two washers, such as depicted in FIG. 2. In some of any of the provided embodiments, acircumferential diameter-limiting sleeve is used to restrict outward expansion and direct the sealing or gripping force inward, ensuring a stable, sealed, or frictional attachment of the add-on device to the endoscope shaft.

[0035] In some aspects, temporary fixation of the add-on device to the endoscopy device is accomplished via the use of an over-center mechanism which serves to compress the rubber grommet as shown in FIG. 3. In some aspects, the over-center mechanism snaps toward the surface of the endoscopy device and into a locked position of the provided add-on device, such as a distal, proximal , or other position. In some aspects, this configuration may be re-positioned by flipping the lever in a distal (or proximal) direction depending on the configuration of the design. In some aspects, there may be more than one rubber grommet that can be compressed onto different locations of the endoscopy device.

[0036] In some aspects, the portion of the endoscopy device that is steerable is positioned distally to the provided add-on device. In some aspects, the portion of the endoscopy device that is steerable is positioned proximally to the provided add-on device. In some aspects, the portion of the endoscopy device that is steerable is positioned both distally and proximally to the provided add-on device.

[0037] In some aspects, one or more rings are present on the inner surface of the provided add-on device. In some aspects, the one or more rings secure the add-on device to the endoscopy device. In some aspects, the inner surface of the add-on device may additionally have patterns that can increase friction between distal end of the add-on device and the endoscopy device. In some aspects, increased friction via patterns on the inner surface of the add-on device may allow for more effective steering while navigating the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or any body cavity. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that increased friction resulting in more effective steering is advantageous in passing through the ileocecal (IC) junction between the large and small bowel. For instance, using an exemplary add-on device, the user may begin with “anchor mode” or rest (e.g., providing a stable platform when necessary for procedural use) with both traction balloons inflated for increased stability. Then, the user may guide the add-on device with engaged endoscopy device forward once the lumen becomes visible by switching to the “forward mode”.

[0038] In some aspects, the fixation of the add-on device to the endoscopy device is via a locking mechanism that is outside the patient. In some aspects, this locking mechanism for fixation of the add-on device comprises a over-center clip mechanism as shown in FIG. 4, or a locknut that is to be made secure prior to the procedure as shown in FIG. 5. In some aspects, the add-on device must be retracted and / or removed from the body cavity for repositioning. In some aspects, the add-on device does not need to be retracted and / or removed from the body cavity for repositioning.

[0039] In some aspects, a locking mechanism for use in fixation of the add-on device to the endoscopy device comprises a reduction in diameter accomplished by any mechanical means that locks in a secure position. In some aspects, the locking mechanism is in a secure position before insertion of the add-on device and / or endoscopy device into a body cavity.

[0040] FIG. 6 depicts alternative exemplary means for configuration of the provided add-on device with an endoscopy device (e.g., fixation of the add-on device). In some aspects, any means for configuration and / or fixation of the add-on device with an endoscopy device can be configured to be locked either from outside, or inside the body cavity.

[0041] FIG. 7 depicts further alternative means for configuration of the provided add-on device with an endoscopy device via a locking mechanism (e.g., fixation of the add-on device). In some aspects, the locking mechanism comprises a circumferential balloon at the inner surface of the distal traction balloon. In some aspects, inflation of the circumferential balloon results in securing of the add-on device to the endoscopy device. In some aspects, deflation of the circumferential balloon results in the add-on device as being detached from the endoscopy device. In some aspects, it is considered that deflation of the circumferential balloon provides for repositioning of the add-on device with respect to the endoscopy device. For instance, deflation of the circumferential balloon, in some aspects, provides a platform to assist with navigation of the endoscopy device within the body cavity.

[0042] In some of any of the provided embodiments, the circumferential balloon will be at the same length as the distal traction balloon. In some of any of the provided embodiments, the circumferential balloon will be at a different length as the distal traction balloon.

[0043] In some aspects, the balloons are made of materials that are highly elastic and expand substantially elastically when pressurized. These materials may also have substantial elasticrecoil such that upon deflation, compliant balloons return substantially to their original pre inflation size. Compliant balloon materials include thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers that exhibit substantial stretching upon the application of tensile force. These materials include, but are not limited to, elastomeric materials such as elastomeric varieties of latex, silicone, polyurethane, and polyolefin elastomers. See for example U.S. Pat. No. 7,892,469, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes. Compliant balloon materials may be cross-linked or uncross-linked. In certain embodiments, the balloons are made of a material with memory of desired shapes. In some embodiments, the balloons will have a pre-set maximum pressure. In particular embodiments, the balloons incorporates certain adhesive properties. In certain embodiments, the balloons incorporate microfibrillar adhesives from polydimethylsiloxane.

[0044] A further alternative exemplary means for fixation of the add-on device to an endoscopy device is depicted in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the provided add-on device is fixed to the endoscopy device by snap rings or snap fits. In some aspects, the add-on device is fixed to an endoscopy device having two or more grooves on the endoscopy device, such as on the distal tip of the Fujinon double ballon enteroscope, via snap rings or snap fits. In some aspects, corresponding snap rings or ridges are present on the inside of the add-on sleeve of the provided add-on device. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the corresponding snap rings or ridges provide a secure and removable attachment method. In some aspects, the add-on sleeve of the add-on device snaps into place around the endoscopy device and is held securely until intentionally removed.

[0045] In some aspects, it is considered that the locking mechanism can be moveable or is adjustable intraoperatively. In some aspects, this is accomplished via mechanical action at the console. In some aspects, the mechanical action can include a push and / or pull, rotating cable, or hydraulic / pneumatic force transmitted to the provided add-on device from the console.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An add-on device configured to engage an endoscopy device, the add-on device comprising: an add-on sleeve comprising a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the add-on sleeve is clamped to an outer surface of the endoscopy device; a proximal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the proximal end of the add-on sleeve; and a distal radially expandable traction balloon positioned at the distal end of the add-on sleeve, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and / or the distal radially expandable traction balloon is slidable along the outer surface of the endoscopy device.

2. The add-on device of claim 1, further comprising an umbilical and / or a console outside of a body cavity, wherein the umbilical connects the add-on sleeve and the console.

3. The add-on device of claims 1-2, further comprising a pressurized gas or fluid unit and / or a vacuum unit.

4. The add-on device of claim 3, wherein the pressurized gas or fluid unit comprises a pressurized air unit.

5. The add-on device of claims 1-4, further comprising a visualization unit and / or an illumination unit.

6. The add-on device of claims 1-5, further comprising a pully system (e.g., a spring and cable system or a guide tube).

7. The add-on device of claim 6, wherein the pully system (e.g., spring and cable system or the guide tube) connects the distal end and the proximal end of the add-on sleeve.

8. The add-on device of claim 6, wherein the pully system (e.g., spring and cable system or the guide tube) connects the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and / or the distal radially expandable traction balloon.

9. The add-on device of claims 1-8, wherein the add-on device is configured to attach to a distal end of the endoscopy device.

10. The add-on device of claims 1-9, wherein the add-on device is configured to attach to the endoscopy device by an atraumatic mechanism, wherein atraumatic mechanism comprises a rubber grommet, wherein the rubber grommet moves radially inward and locks onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device.

11. The add-on device of claims 1-10, wherein the add-on device is configured to lock onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device by a lever action, a slider action, or a rotation action.

12. The add-on device of claims 1-11, wherein the add-on device is configured to lock onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device by a complementary feature (e.g., a ring positioned on an inside surface of the add-on device) onto an endoscopy device.

13. The add-on device of claims 1-12, wherein the add-on device is configured to lock onto the outer surface of the endoscopy device by a complementary feature (e.g., a ring positioned on an inside surface of the add-on device) onto an endoscopy feature (e.g., a groove on an outer surface of the endoscopy device).

14. The add-on device of claims 1-13, wherein the add-on device is configured to operate mechanically and / or electronically.

15. The add-on device of claims 1-14, wherein the add-on device is configured to operate by hand and / or by foot.

16. The add-on device of claims 1-15, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprise inner surfaces configured to frictionally engage the outer surface of the endoscopy device.

17. The add-on device of claims 1-16, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon comprise outer surfaces configured to frictionally engage a wall of a body cavity.

18. The add-on device of claims 1-17, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon are independently controlled.

19. The add-on device of claims 1-18, wherein the body cavity is a vascular body lumen, a digestive body lumen, a respiratory body lumen, or a urinary body lumen.

20. A method of using an add-on device of claims 1-19 configured to engage an endoscopy device, the method comprising:Putting (e.g., sliding) the add-on device onto the endoscopy device; fixing the add-on device onto a distal end of the endoscopy device; and moving the add-on device simultaneously with the endoscopy device within a body cavity.

21. A method of claim 20, wherein the add-on device moves the endoscopy device within the body cavity forward and / or backward.

22. A method of claim 20, wherein the add-on device positions the endoscopy device at a fixed location within the body cavity.

23. A method of claims 20-22, wherein the proximal radially expandable traction balloon and the distal radially expandable traction balloon are configured to expand and collapse alternatively, thereby effecting movement of the add-on device simultaneously with the endoscopy device within the body cavity.

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